Hello, darlings!

I can’t believe 2024 is nearly over. We’re nearly a month from Christmas and I still haven’t caught up on all my writing goals for the year. *sigh*

Many of my lovely readers are scattered across the globe, so I don’t typically post any local events I’ll be attending, but I wanted to share the next one.

On Saturday, November 16th, I’ll be at the Cheyenne, Wyoming Barnes and Noble signing ALL of my books. If you’re close or know someone who loves steamy, sweary, swoony romance, pass on the news.

Why did I choose to share this event in particular? Well, I wanted an opportunity to explain why you don’t see my books in Barnes and Noble nationwide. They exist solely on the shelves of my local Barnes and Noble, and I’m okay with that.

Don’t I want my books in every bookstore across the country? Of course, I do! But that’s not realistic for me as an independent author, and I have no desire to go traditional. What I truly want is my books on every romance reader’s home bookshelf. That is where they belong.

You see, just because my books are on the shelf at Barnes and Noble doesn’t mean anyone will buy them. I’ve seen this time and again with other indie authors. They fight to get their books on the shelves, but those books sit idle and collect dust until they’re returned to the printer to be destroyed.

Now I’m not saying I’m a master marketing guru. If I were, I’d be making six figures writing the books I love and building my dream homestead. But I’m watching. I’m learning. And what I see is that most people think writing the book and putting it in the store is enough.

SPOILER ALERT: It’s not. 😭

As an author, my job is to write the best book I can and then TELL people about it! Even traditionally published authors are expected to get on social media to promote their new current works-in-progress as well as announce their upcoming releases. They’re encouraged to interact with readers and create a community!

I’ve been saying that for years now. We must create a community surrounding our books, our passion!

Bookstores are a wonderful place for discovery and exploration, but your books must hold their own against the others in the same section. You must make them stand out, and the best way to do that is to get on social media and network with other authors. Use your collective presence to bring light to your books and make your name recognizable in a vast sea of potential literary delights.

Having a book signing at any bookstore or reader event is a great opportunity, but it’s only as productive as YOU make it. Put yourself out there, connect with readers, and make some new friends!

Writing is a solitary endeavor, but publishing your work is NOT. It takes a community of support to boost our morale and keep us going.

If you’re an indie author, I hope you take that next step in your career. Take a chance and put yourself out there. Build your community!

If you’re an avid reader, I implore you to support your favorite authors. Go to your local bookstore and have them ORDER a physical copy for you (that shows the demand for their work), and if it’s not available, then find other ways to show your support. Write reviews. Tell your friends. Buy a copy from their listed retailers. Be a cheerleader!

Remember, this is our livelihood. Don’t pirate books. Don’t encourage returning books once you’ve read them. This hurts ALL the authors whose work you enjoy. Please don’t be that reader. We have a synergistic relationship, readers and authors. I can only afford to write when I’m reimbursed for my time and financial investment. And if you’re struggling, then reach out to your local library. ❤️

I hope this helps someone. It’s been on my heart lately, and I wanted to share my insight.

If you happen to be in the Cheyenne area this Saturday, then stop by! I’d love to see you.

xoxo,

Kirsten